The Karajan suites from the three great Tchaikovsky ballets have long been a standard recording and an absolute must for any classical collection worth its salt . . . Karajan adds a degree of anticipatory breathlessness that puts these readings in a class all by themselves. The sound has never been better -- though even the Decca CDs were quite high level in this regard -- and this is one release that simply begs to be acquired.

Record Review /
Steven Ritter,
Audiophile Audition / 04. June 2014

Karajan's performances in these Decca recordings are very dramatic, sharply pointed rhythmically, and more symphonic than balletic . . . The sound is, not surprisingly, big and dramatic with a wide, deep soundstage and plenty of wide open airiness . . . this is an excellent coupling with good sound and highly dramatic, symphonic interpretations.